High Accuracy and Miniature 2-D Wind Sensor for Boundary Layer Meteorological Observation

Area of Science:

• Meteorology
• Sensor Technology
• Aerospace Engineering

Background:

• Accurate wind speed and direction data are crucial for meteorological observations, particularly in the atmospheric boundary layer.
• Small, lightweight wind sensors are required for integration with unmanned aerial vehicles like quadcopters.
• Existing sensors may face limitations in size, accuracy, or adaptability to dynamic platforms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a compact, two-dimensional wind sensor suitable for quadcopter-based meteorological observations.
• To investigate the performance of a cylindrical wind sensor utilizing Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) differential pressure sensors.
• To propose and test a model for correcting measurement errors caused by the quadcopter's inclination.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a cylindrical wind sensor (30 mm diameter, 80 mm height) using MEMS differential pressure sensors.
• Development of a mathematical model for pressure difference distribution across the cylinder.
• Conducting wind tunnel experiments across a range of wind speeds (1-40 m/s).
• Implementing an inclination angle compensation model.

Main Results:

• The prototype wind sensor demonstrated low relative speed measuring errors of ± (0.2 + 0.03 V) m/s and direction errors within ±5°.
• The proposed inclination angle model effectively compensated for tilt effects.
• Accurate wind measurements were maintained within a 30° inclination range after compensation.

Conclusions:

• The developed cylindrical wind sensor is a viable tool for boundary layer meteorological observations using quadcopters.
• The sensor's small size, accuracy, and ability to compensate for inclination make it suitable for UAV applications.
• This technology advances the potential for mobile, high-resolution atmospheric data collection.